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UAF Welcomes GB Remanufacturing as Lifetime Trustee
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By Counterman
link hidden, please login to view (APA) appointed Rich Echternacht, owner of Good Guys Auto Parts, to the APA Board of Directors. APA said he brings hands-on industry knowledge, entrepreneurial experience, and strong support for APA shareholders and TruStar members. APA described Echternacht as a longtime champion of independent automotive businesses. New Voice on the APA Board of Directors Brings Ground-Level Insight
Echternacht started his career in the automotive aftermarket as a counter trainee at NAPA. He gained firsthand industry knowledge from the ground up. In 2009, driven by a passion for customer service and a desire to build something of his own, he founded Good Guys Auto Parts. The business is located in Iowa City, Iowa.
Good Guys Auto Parts Joins APA in 2023
link hidden, please login to viewjoined APA in 2023 after Echternacht recognized the value of APA’s responsiveness. He especially appreciated APA’s advanced inventory modeling technology. The tool made a lasting impression and influenced his decision to join the organization. Board Role Strengthens Voice for Independent Businesses
“APA felt different from the start—they actually listened,” said Echternacht. “They were responsive, supportive, and offered tools that helped us operate smarter, such as inventory modeling. That’s why I’m excited to join the Board of Directors—to help ensure small businesses like mine continue to have a voice and the resources to thrive.”
APA Recognizes Grounded Leadership and Perspective
“Rich’s journey—from the counter to company owner—is one many of our members can relate to,” said Steve Tucker, president of
link hidden, please login to view. “He understands the challenges and opportunities our members face and brings a fresh, grounded perspective to the board. We’re proud to have him join our leadership.” Commitment to Diverse Member Representation
APA said Echternacht’s appointment shows its commitment to representing diverse voices across its membership. This includes owner-operators and independent automotive shops who rely on APA for support.
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By Counterman
link hidden, please login to view is pleased to announce that Hamilton Discount Auto Parts ( link hidden, please login to view) joined as its newest shareholder. By joining APA, HDAP gains access to a suite of resources, strong supplier connections, and a community of like-minded independent distributors, elevating its ability to serve customers effectively. APA Welcomes New Shareholder HDAP, expanding its network. The Growth of HDAP
Khaled Abudagga founded HDAP in 2003. He started it as a single-location business in Hamilton, Ontario. Khaled, a former auto shop owner, transitioned into the parts-selling industry. His goal was to provide top-tier products and exceptional service. Over the years, HDAP grew and now operates 16 locations. Customers know the business for its reliability and dedication.
Why HDAP Joined APA
“HDAP joined APA because I was looking for a U.S. buying group that would provide more value for its shareholders,” said Khaled. “I saw APA and was impressed that it operated like a family business.”
Khaled Abudagga Joins the APA Board
In addition to joining APA, Abudagga now serves on the APA Board of Directors. His extensive experience in the automotive aftermarket adds value to the organization. His commitment to independent distributors strengthens the community.
APA Welcomes New Shareholder to Strengthen its Mission
“We are thrilled to welcome HDAP to the
link hidden, please login to view family,” said Steve Tucker, president of APA. “Their commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction aligns perfectly with our mission, and we look forward to a successful partnership.” The post
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By Counterman
APA announced Axon US as the newest addition to TruStar. Founded in 2008, Axon US began with a small office in Midtown Manhattan and a basement workspace in Long Island City. Its founder, Siyao Ji, started Axon independently, building the company from the ground up. He established the company with a clear vision: to create a streamlined supply chain system that efficiently meets the needs of the auto industry.
Axon initially operated solely as an online retailer but expanded its presence to better serve customers through offline channels. In 2021, the company moved into a 20,000 sq. ft. warehouse in Queens to accommodate its growing inventory and improve order fulfillment. Today, Axon US serves both online and offline customers through its warehouse showroom, with plans to open a dedicated brick-and-mortar store that is aiming to open in Q4.
link hidden, please login to viewsaid Natasha Huang has been with Axon US for about six months as a buyer. Previously a salesperson for an Asian auto parts wholesale distributor, she joined Axon to deepen her understanding of the auto supply chain and continue growing in the industry. “Axon US is eager to expand its presence in the automotive industry by joining TruStar, fostering connections with other members and strengthening relationships with key brands,” said Huang.
“We are excited to welcome Axon US to the TruStar family and look forward to the collaboration and innovation they will bring to our network,” said Steve Tucker, President of APA.
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By Counterman
AIT announced the addition of five professionals to its team. The company said these individuals bring a wealth of expertise and proven success, further strengthening its mission to deliver exceptional value to its customers and partners.
Rick Stempien, Vice President of Sales – Retailers
Stempien joins
link hidden, please login to view with over 20 years of leadership experience in sales and business development while at First Brands, Hopkins Manufacturing and Trico. Known for his exceptional ability to drive market share growth and cultivate strong customer relationships, Stempien will lead retailer-focused sales initiatives and deepen engagement with our retail partners, according to AIT. Mark Roach, Marketing Director
Roach brings nearly a decade of experience in the automotive aftermarket, with a strong background in brand strategy, digital marketing and content development. Before joining AIT/TrakMotive, he held key marketing roles at Schaeffler and International Lubricants, where he played a pivotal role in driving brand growth and market engagement. His strategic vision and expertise will be instrumental in elevating
link hidden, please login to view’s marketing initiatives and strengthening industry presence, the company said. Tracy Beecroft, Senior Key Account Manager
Beecroft joins AIT/TrakMotive with a proven track record in managing high-profile accounts while employed at Dana, BorgWarner/Delphi and Lumileds Philips. Her extensive experience in developing strategic partnerships, executing successful product launches and driving revenue growth will be instrumental in advancing retailer relationships, according to AIT.
Stephen DiSorbo, Key Account Manager
DiSorbo brings a diverse background in sales and category management, with experience at organizations like GKN, BorgWarner/Delphi and Eaton. His expertise in product launches, line expansions and bridging sales with category strategy gives him a unique ability to drive growth, strengthen retailer partnerships and translate market needs into actionable opportunities, AIT said.
William Zhu, Strategy and Business Intelligence – Manager
Zhu brings a strong background in operations transformation and management consulting. Before joining AIT/Trakmotive, he was part of Accenture’s Strategy & Consulting practice, where he specialized in generative AI, risk and compliance, and business process optimization. His experience within the automotive aftermarket began in 2013 when he spent the summer as a factory worker at Ningbo Wonh Industries Co., Ltd., part of the AIT/TrakMotive family of companies. This unique blend of industry experience and functional expertise positions him to drive impactful initiatives that will support AIT/TrakMotive’s continued growth, the company said.
With AIT/TrakMotive’s continued growth, the company said it is expanding its sales, marketing and strategy operations to better serve its customers. Its traditional aftermarket accounts will continue to be led by Vice President of Sales Kent Talley and his team, ensuring the same trusted support and expertise our partners rely on. Meanwhile, Vice President of Retail Sales Rick Stempien and his team will focus on strengthening relationships with retail partners, enhancing AIT/TrakMotive’s ability to serve this important segment.
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By Counterman
The University of the Aftermarket Foundation (UAF) reminds students that March 31 is the deadline to submit applications on its Aftermarket Scholarship Central websites at
link hidden, please login to view and link hidden, please login to view. Over $800,000 of scholarships will be awarded for the 2025-’26 academic year to students enrolled in four-year and two-year colleges, as well as ASE/NATEF certified automotive, collision and heavy-duty/diesel post-secondary programs. UAF said this record-setting amount surpasses the 327 scholarships totaling $721,000 awarded in 2024, including scholarships for service and repair, engineering, supply chain, finance and IT/cybersecurity fields of study. The Foundation’s AutomotiveScholarships.com and HeavyDutyScholarships.com websites are streamlined, mobile-ready portals with easy navigation and a simplified online application process for students interested in careers in the motor vehicle aftermarket. By completing a single
link hidden, please login to view online, students will be considered for multiple scholarships for which they are eligible. The websites allow applicants to view the details of all scholarships available and continue to update their application until the March 31 deadline. A complete list of scholarships offered by UAF and affiliated organizations is featured on the websites with links to information outlining each organization’s scholarship details, eligibility requirements and awards. To be considered for as many scholarships as possible, UAF urges applicants to read the individual pages thoroughly to ensure they include the proper information required by each organization with their application.
“The UAF scholarship program will have a record year in 2025, awarding more scholarship funds than ever so the recipients can get the education and training they need to begin a successful automotive or heavy-duty career,” said Roger McCollum, MAAP, chairman, University of the Aftermarket Foundation. “We encourage all those who are interested in applying to visit the UAF scholarship websites soon to complete and submit their applications in advance of the March 31 deadline.”
To receive information, reminders and updates about the UAF scholarship program, interested parties can text their name and email address to 720-903-2206.
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